Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Chewy Sticks: The Perfect Easy Dental Dog Treat

Dogs don’t ask for much—just belly rubs, walks, and maybe a taste of whatever’s on your plate. But when it comes to keeping their teeth clean, most dogs aren’t exactly excited about toothbrushes.

Enter these peanut butter and pumpkin chewy sticks, an easy dental dog treat that’s both delicious and functional! They’ll help scrape away plaque while keeping your pup entertained (and begging for more).

And here’s the kicker—they’re so simple, you can whip up a batch during your lunch break. Seriously.

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Why These Chewy Sticks Work Like a Charm

These aren’t just treats—they’re multitasking marvels. The chewy texture gives your dog’s teeth a gentle scrub, while the ingredients promote overall health. Here’s the breakdown:

Peanut Butter: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a flavor dogs can’t resist. Just make sure to use a brand that’s free of xylitol (that stuff is toxic to dogs).
Pumpkin Puree: Great for digestion and full of vitamins, pumpkin also adds moisture to keep the treats chewy.
Oats: Fiber-rich and naturally abrasive, oats help scrub teeth as dogs chew.

It’s a trifecta of deliciousness and dental benefits, all rolled into one.

Ingredients

1 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 cups oat flour (or rolled oats blended into a fine flour)

Optional Add-Ins:

A dash of cinnamon for flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits
Shredded carrots for added texture and vitamins

How to Make Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Chewy Sticks

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set the oven to 300°F. You want a lower temperature to bake the sticks slowly and achieve that chewy texture.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and pumpkin puree. Stir until smooth, then gradually add the oat flour. Pro tip: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour until you get a soft, moldable consistency.

Step 3: Shape the Sticks

Scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into long sticks or twists (about ½ inch thick). You can also flatten them into bone shapes if you’re feeling creative. Don’t worry about perfection—your dog won’t judge.

Step 4: Bake to Chewy Perfection

Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes. If you want a crunchier treat, leave them in for an extra 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—no one likes burnt peanut butter!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the sticks cool completely before giving them to your pup. This part is important—hot peanut butter can be dangerous, and your dog will probably be circling the kitchen waiting.

Why Dogs Go Crazy for These Chews

Peanut butter obsession: You know how dogs act around peanut butter—this treat is no exception.
Chewy texture: The slight resistance helps clean teeth and keeps your dog engaged longer than those one-bite snacks.
Pumpkin boost: Not only does it taste amazing, but it also soothes sensitive stomachs.

Storage Tips

Store the chewy sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, keep them in the fridge (they’ll last about 2 weeks).
Freezer option: These freeze well—just thaw them before serving. Pro tip: Frozen treats are great for teething puppies or as a cooling treat in the summer.

Tips for Customization

Want to mix things up? Try these variations:

Add chopped apples or shredded zucchini for a nutrient boost.
Sprinkle flaxseeds or chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
Use brown rice flour instead of oat flour for a crunchier texture.

Final Thoughts: Why This Easy Dental Dog Treat Deserves a Spot on Your Baking List

These peanut butter and pumpkin chewy sticks are more than just another treat—they’re a fun, healthy, and effective way to help maintain your dog’s dental hygiene. The chewy texture works to scrape away plaque, while the flavors guarantee your dog will come running every time you reach for one.

And let’s be real—baking for your dog feels good. There’s something satisfying about knowing exactly what’s in their food, without any sketchy additives or preservatives. Plus, you get bonus points for being the awesome pet parent who makes homemade treats.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some peanut butter, roll up your sleeves, and treat your dog to these chewy, mouth-cleaning sticks. Just be prepared for some major puppy-dog eyes asking for seconds. And thirds. And maybe fourths. You’ve been warned.

David

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉

Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Chewy Sticks: The Perfect Easy Dental Dog Treat

Why These Chewy Sticks Work Like a Charm

Ingredients